Peonies (*Paeonia spp.*) are beloved perennial plants known for their lush, fragrant blooms and longevity. They thrive in USDA hardiness zones 3-8, making them suitable for most U.S. gardens. Peonies are categorized into three main types: herbaceous, tree, and intersectional (Itoh). Each type offers unique characteristics, and selecting the best varieties depends on climate, soil, and aesthetic preferences.
Herbaceous peonies die back to the ground in winter and re-emerge in spring. They are the most common type grown in U.S. gardens due to their hardiness and low maintenance.
'Sarah Bernhardt': A classic double-flowered variety with soft pink blooms, ideal for zones 3-8. It’s highly fragrant and excellent for cut flowers.
'Festiva Maxima': A white double peony with crimson flecks, known for its strong fragrance and disease resistance. It performs well in zones 3-8.
'Karl Rosenfield': A deep crimson double peony with sturdy stems, perfect for zones 3-7. It’s drought-tolerant and attracts pollinators.
Tree peonies (*Paeonia suffruticosa*) are woody shrubs with large, exotic flowers. They prefer zones 4-9 and require well-drained soil.
'High Noon': A yellow-flowered variety with a lemony fragrance, thriving in zones 4-8. It’s heat-tolerant and blooms earlier than most tree peonies.
'Shimadaijin': A Japanese tree peony with deep pink to purple semi-double flowers. It’s cold-hardy (zones 4-8) and prefers partial shade.
'Luo Yang Hong': A Chinese variety with bright red blooms and golden stamens. It’s adaptable to zones 5-9 and resistant to pests.
Intersectional peonies are hybrids of herbaceous and tree peonies, combining the best traits of both. They are sturdy, disease-resistant, and produce abundant blooms.
'Bartzella': A yellow double-flowered Itoh peony with a citrusy scent. It’s ideal for zones 4-9 and blooms for up to 4 weeks.
'Cora Louise': A white semi-double peony with lavender-pink flares. It’s heat-tolerant (zones 4-9) and has strong stems.
'Julia Rose': A unique variety with apricot-pink blooms that change color as they mature. It thrives in zones 4-8 and is deer-resistant.
When selecting peonies for U.S. gardens, consider the following:
Climate: Herbaceous peonies suit colder zones, while tree and Itoh peonies prefer milder winters.
Soil: Peonies need well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral pH. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Sunlight: Most peonies require at least 6 hours of sunlight daily, though tree peonies tolerate partial shade.
Bloom Time: Stagger varieties to extend the flowering season from late spring to early summer.
To ensure healthy growth and abundant blooms, follow these guidelines:
Planting Depth: Herbaceous peonies should be planted with eyes (buds) 1-2 inches below the soil surface. Tree peonies need grafting unions 4-6 inches deep.
Watering: Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and avoid high-nitrogen formulas.
Support: Heavy blooms may require staking, especially for herbaceous varieties.
